It’s a new season, with many rookies dotting rosters across the NHL. And, with so many newbies taking the ice to start the season, it stands to reason that the early going will feature a number of first NHL goals from said rookies. Read more»

Photo: Jack Eichel, who will make the Buffalo Sabres as an 18-year-old, could be the most talented American hockey player in the history of the game. (Courtesy of Ken Andersen/NHLPA via Getty Images)

The Buffalo Sabres have quickly transitioned from a desperate, broken hockey club to one full of potential and promise—and not just because of Jack Eichel. After some daring moves by GM Tim Murray during the offseason, it’s clear that the team has made it a priority to ensure its young star is surrounded with talent as he grows into an elite franchise center.

In performances you would expect from the first and second overall picks in the 2015 NHL Draft, Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel led their respective teams to prospect tournament victories. There were also a pair of firsts, as 2016 hopeful Auston Matthews tallied his first goal in Zurich, Switzerland and Joseph Veleno, the first exceptional player from Quebec, scored his first QMJHL goal. Meanwhile, Calgary’s crease is loaded, but Jon Gillies is making sure he’s not forgotten, and another former prospect goaltender has a little fun with what’s left of his offseason in a remake of a cult-classic film. Read more»

Photo: Jack Eichel led Boston University to the Frozen Four finals, totalling 71 points (26 goals, 45 assists) in 40 games as a freshman. (Courtesy of Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images)

In most cases, a winning record and a championship trophy would be considered a triumphant year, but not for the Buffalo Sabres, a rebuilding team more concerned with stockpiling talent. Losing was winning for the Sabres, because each loss meant getting closer and closer to their prize: Connor McDavid. A generational talent, McDavid could single-handedly alter the course of a franchise and provide multiple winning records and trophies for years to come. Read more»

Photo: Seattle Thunderbirds forward Mathew Barzal was ranked as a top-10 talent, but fell to the New York Islanders at 16th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft (courtesy of Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images)

With the 2015 NHL Draft in the rear-view mirror, hope and optimism abounds among NHL organizations and their fans. It’s truly a great time of year, and with 211 picks in the books, this draft should be remembered for years to come. Read more»